Sylvia Maracle

Sylvia Maracle (Skonaganleh:ra) is a 2Spirited Mohawk, Wolf Clan member from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territories. Sylvia has worked with Indigenous Friendship Centres since 1975. She has been the Executive Director of the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres for 41 years.

Currently Sylvia is Chair and developmental Co-Founder of the Original People’s Learning Centre post-secondary institution.

Sylvia has been the Chair of Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services since its inception. She has also served as president and board member of several Toronto Indigenous organizations.

Sylvia Maracle is an experienced dynamic leader, visionary and public speaker grounded in the traditional knowledge and practices of her people.

Sylvia has been instrumental in designing, implementing and chairing many Ontario Indigenous strategies. She has also contributed to a number of federal Indigenous initiatives. She holds leadership roles for the National Association of Friendship Centres and the Native Women’s Association of Canada. She has participated in international events representing Indigenous women and children.

Sylvia is a founding Co-Chair for Two Spirits in Motion, the national advocacy group to support 2SLGBTQ+ Indigenous community members.

In 2022, Sylvia was the recipient of the Governor General’s Award in Commemoration of the Persons Case. Sylvia received Doctor of Laws degrees from Guelph, York, Trent and Queen’s Universities. She is an Officer of the Order of Canada, Queen’s Jubilee Medal and an Indspire Award for Public Service.